Information processing apparatus, method for processing information, and program

ABSTRACT

An information processing apparatus includes a parameter input unit configured to input parameter information for setting an operating state of a target apparatus, an image conversion unit configured to generate conversion image data by imaging the parameter information, and a setting file image generation unit configured to generate setting file image data where the conversion image data is placed in image data having a larger image size than the conversion image data.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Priority PatentApplication JP 2013-063835 filed Mar. 26, 2013, the entire contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus,method for processing information, and computer program that imagevarious parameters of an electronic apparatus or the like and handle animaged file.

Audio, video, network, and entertainment apparatuses and otherelectronic apparatuses have been sold in recent years. Each user setsvarious parameters with respect to particular functions in such anapparatus and then uses the apparatus. Since these parameters areusually set by default, the user has no problem in using the apparatuseven when the user does not set the parameters.

On the other hand, if the user can optionally set these parameters andthen use them, he or she can increase the enjoyment of using theapparatus or use the apparatus in accordance with his or her preferencesor tastes.

For example, there are audio apparatuses and the like in which the usercan set frequency characteristics of the equalizer as parametersettings. There are also audio apparatuses which can automatically setthe equalizer in accordance with the category of music (see JapaneseUnexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-235772). Since suchan audio apparatus automatically adjusts frequency characteristics inaccordance with the category, such as jazz, classic, or pop, the usercan listen to and enjoy the music using the adjusted characteristics.

The user may set the parameters of the equalizer at his or herdiscretion to create unique sound. In this case, the user can enjoy themusic in accordance with his or her preferences or the like by settingthe equalizer regardless of the category or the like and thus creatingsound.

SUMMARY

While the user alone may enjoy the music using the equalizer settingsmade by him or her, other users may share such equalizer settings andenjoy the music using the equalizer settings.

Further, if users can share example equalizer settings recommended byfamous musicians, artists, creators, and the like, they can increase theenjoyment. Furthermore, if users having the same music preferences canshare equalizer settings, they are expected to exchange information anddevelop interactions with one another.

Accordingly, it is desirable to easily and widely provide parameterssuch as frequency characteristics of the equalizer, for example, set bythe user, and to make such parameters easily available.

Firstly, an information processing apparatus according to the presenttechnology includes a parameter input unit configured to input parameterinformation for setting an operating state of a target apparatus, animage conversion unit configured to generate conversion image data byimaging the parameter information, and a setting file image generationunit configured to generate setting file image data where the conversionimage data is placed in image data having a larger image size than theconversion image data.

By generating the setting file image data by imaging the parameterinformation, the parameter information can be widely distributed.

Secondly, in the information processing apparatus according to thepresent technology, the setting file image data preferably furtherincludes recognition image data obtained by imaging recognitioninformation for recognizing that the setting file image data is an imageincluding the conversion image data.

Thus, an application or the like for downloading setting file image datacan recognize that the image data is setting file image data.

Thirdly, in the information processing apparatus according to thepresent technology, the image conversion unit preferably generates theconversion image data by converting the parameter information into oneof color information and transparency information.

Fourthly, the image conversion unit preferably generates the conversionimage data by converting a value included in the parameter informationinto one of color information and transparency information.

Fifthly, the image conversion unit preferably generates the conversionimage data by converting a value included in the parameter informationinto one of color information and transparency information in accordancewith a conversion pattern.

Sixthly, the image conversion unit preferably uses the selected orinputted conversion pattern.

Thus, it is possible to increase the viewability of the image of thesetting file image data or to show details of the parameters to the userwho has visually recognized the image.

Seventhly, the setting file image data preferably includes image datacorresponding to the conversion image data.

Eighthly, the setting file image data preferably includes an imageindicating that the setting file image data is an image including theconversion image data.

Ninthly, the setting file image data preferably includes an imageindicating a creator of the parameter information.

Tenthly, the setting file image data preferably includes an imageindicating the target apparatus.

Thus, the viewability of the setting file image data can be increased.Further, the user who has looked at the setting file image data caneasily grasp details thereof.

Eleventhly, the parameter information is preferably a parameter of anequalizer characteristic.

Thus, audio apparatuses, headphone apparatuses, and the like can sharethe parameters.

A method for processing information according to the present technologyincludes inputting parameter information for setting an operating stateof a target apparatus, generating conversion image data by imaging theparameter information, and generating setting file image data where theconversion image data is placed in image data having a larger image sizethan the conversion image data.

A program according to the present technology causes an informationprocessing apparatus to perform such a method for processinginformation.

As seen above, the present technology is suitable for achieving such asan information processing apparatus which generates setting file imagedata by imaging parameter information.

An information processing apparatus according to the present technology,that is, an information processing apparatus which uses setting fileimage data includes a setting file image acquisition unit configured toreceive setting file image data where conversion image data obtained byimaging parameter information for setting an operating state of a targetapparatus is placed in image data having a larger image size than theconversion image data, a conversion image extraction unit configured toextract the conversion image data from the setting file image data, anda parameter decoding unit configured to generate parameter informationfrom the conversion image data.

A method for processing information according to the present technologyincludes receiving setting file image data where conversion image dataobtained by imaging parameter information for setting an operating stateof a target apparatus is placed in image data having a larger image sizethan the conversion image data, extracting the conversion image datafrom the setting file image data, and generating parameter informationfrom the conversion image data.

A program according to the present technology causes an informationprocessing apparatus to perform such a method for processinginformation.

According to the present technology, it is possible to receivevisualized setting file image data, to convert the setting file imagedata into parameter information of the target apparatus, and to use theparameter information.

According to the present technology, parameter information is handled assetting file image data. Thus, as with photographs or illustrations, theparameter information can be easily distributed over the network so thatit can be easily shared by many users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example where a user makessettings in the equalizer of the target apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing an example where users sharesetting information;

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example where settinginformation is shared through a dedicated server or the like;

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing a system operation which isperformed on an SNS for sharing setting information;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are block diagrams of an information processingapparatus according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing waveforms and specific values forequalizer settings according to the embodiment;

FIGS. 7A to 7G are diagrams showing a first example of generation ofsetting file image data according to the embodiment;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams showing a second example of generation ofsetting file image data according to the embodiment;

FIGS. 9A to 9C are diagrams showing the second example of generation ofsetting file image data according to the embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an image generation operation accordingto the embodiment;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are flowcharts showing image generation operationsaccording to the embodiment; and

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a read operation according to theembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Now, details of the present technology will be described in thefollowing order.

1. Parameter Sharing Method 2. Configuration of Information ProcessingApparatus 3. First Example of Generation of Setting File Image Data 4.Second Example of Generation of Setting File Image Data

5. Initial Communication with Target Apparatus

6. Setting File Image Data Generation Process 7. Process Using SettingFile Image Data 8. Program and Modification 1. Parameter Sharing Method

Hereafter, referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a method which allows many usersto share parameters for setting particular functions of various types ofelectronic apparatuses will be described using the equalizer settings ofan audio apparatus (active headphone) as an example. In this case, theparameters of the equalizer are gains (dB) corresponding topredetermined frequencies.

First, assume that a user changes the equalizer settings.

FIG. 1 schematically shows an operation where a user changes theequalizer settings of an active headphone 3 (hereafter simply referredto as the headphone 3). As shown in FIG. 1, a user A edits the equalizersettings of the headphone 3 using an equalizer characteristics editingapparatus 1 (PC terminal or smartphone terminal). This edit is performedby equalizer characteristics editing software (not shown) which runs onthe equalizer characteristics editing apparatus 1. The edited equalizersettings are stored in the equalizer characteristics editing apparatus 1in the form of a setting file 2.

In this edit, the user may create characteristics by making a change tothe manufacturer-recommended characteristics or may newly generatecharacteristics from the beginning.

The user can send the stored setting file 2 to the headphone 3, forexample, through Bluetooth® (wireless standard), Universal Serial Bus(USB), or other transmission standards.

The headphone 3 receives the equalizer settings and changes the existingequalizer settings on the basis of the received settings. Thus, theheadphone 3 plays back sound using the changed equalizer settings.

As a result of the above operation, the user A can listen to and enjoymusic using the headphone 3 in which the user-created characteristicsare set. In this case, the equalizer settings are personally owned bythe user.

On the other hand, if other users having the same headphones can sharethe setting file 2, the other users can listen to and enjoy music or thelike using the characteristics created by the original user. That is,the users can make the same experience (assume that no consideration isgiven the difference in auditory sense between the users). Inparticular, if the user who has originally set the characteristics is afamous artist or the like, the characteristics set by him or her canhave a special meaning for the other users, and listening to music usingthe headphone 3 in which such characteristics are set can be a greatpleasure for them.

Further, if the other users can share and use the setting file 2 createdby the original user, they can save the time and effort for creating asetting file 2 by themselves.

FIG. 2 shows one example of a sharing method by which users share asetting file 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the sharing method may be attachmentof the setting file 2 to emails by a user. For example, a user A sendsthe setting file 2 to users B and C using emails. Alternatively, theuser B may send the setting file 2 received from the user A to the userC using an email. Thus, the three users, A, B, and C, can share thesetting file 2. However, typically, the range in which the setting file2 can be shared is limited to friends or acquaintances of the users.

If a user uploads a file to an FTP server or HTTP server owned orcontracted with by the user and then makes its uniform resource locator(URL) public on any social networking service (SNS), the sharing rangecan be increased. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing this operation.

The flow of the operation is roughly as follows. As shown in FIG. 3, (i)a user uploads a setting file 2 to a server 4 (ftp://xxx.ne.jp/yyy/zzz/or dedicated server) contracted with by the user; (ii) the user writesthe URL of the uploaded setting file 2 to the bulletin board of any SNS;(iii) other users look at the URL; (iv) the other users download thesetting file 2 from the URL; and (v) the other users set the downloadedsetting file 2 in their headphones 3.

Thus, the other users can listen to and enjoy music using the equalizersettings represented by the setting file 2, that is, using thecharacteristics set by the original user. That is, the users can makethe same experience. In this case, anyone can use the setting file 2unless there is any access limitation to the URL. The sharing range canbecome much wider than that in FIG. 2. For example, the original usercan share the setting file 2 with an indefinite number of users quicklyand flexibly.

In this case, however, a special server has to be set up and run, andthose who set up and run such a server have to take significant time andeffort. Further, the user may have to bear some cost.

In the present embodiment, there is proposed a sharing method which issimpler than the above sharing method, can be shared by more users, andis convenient.

By converting parameter information into setting file image data 6 andthen posting the setting file image data 6 on the bulletin board 5 ofany SNS, the parameter setting file can be shared easily andconveniently. Referring to FIG. 4, this system operation will bedescribed briefly.

In FIG. 4, parameter settings made by the user A are converted intosetting file image data 6 x and then posted on the bulletin board 5 ofthe SNS. FIG. 4 also outlines an operation where the user B downloadsand uses the setting file image data 6 x posted on the SNS.

As shown in FIG. 4, an information processing apparatus 1, such as apersonal computer (PC) or smartphone, includes an SNS application 11 anda setting/editing application 12.

The SNS application 11 is software which allows access to the SNS. Thus,the information processing apparatus 1 can post predeterminedinformation on the bulletin board 5 of the SNS.

The setting/editing application 12 is software for generating settingfile image data 6. In this case, the set edit application 12 generatestwo types of setting file image data 6: setting file image data 6 x andsetting file image data 6 y. The user A can freely generate any numberof types of setting file image data 6 using the setting/editingapplication 12. For example, the user A can post the generated settingfile image data 6 x on the bulletin board 5 of the SNS using the SNSapplication 11.

The user B looks at the setting file image data 6 x on the bulletinboard 5 and downloads it to an information terminal (informationprocessing apparatus 1) used by the user B. The user B then sets, in theequalizer of the headphone 3, the equalizer frequency characteristicssettings (hereafter may be referred to as “EQ parameters”) included inthe setting file image data 6 x. Thus, the user B can listen to musicusing the settings.

The setting file image data 6 x may be an image such that the user B orthe like can recognize the creator of the data or details of the EQparameters. A method for generating an image which allows recognition ofthe creator or details will be described later. Thus, when the user Blooks at the setting file image data 6 x on the bulletin board 5, he orshe can recognize that the setting file image data 6 x has beengenerated by the user A and also recognize the equalizer settings.Accordingly, if the user A is a famous musician or if the equalizersettings are attractive, other users may be interested in acquiring thesetting file image data 6 x. Further, the user B or the like increasesthe enjoyment of music by listening to the music using the settingsrepresented by the setting file image data 6 x.

The user A can not only post the generated setting file image data 6 xand 6 y on the bulletin board 5 of the SNS but also use them in theheadphone 3 used by the user A.

In this case, the user A does not necessarily have to convert the EQparameters made by the user into setting file image data 6. That is, theuser A may transfer the EQ parameters themselves to his or her ownheadphone 3. In the present embodiment, an example where setting fileimage data 6 is used will be described.

As shown in FIG. 4, the headphone 3 includes, for example, a setting RAM21, an AD converter 22, a digital signal processor (DSP) 23, a DAconverter 24, an output amplifier 25, and a speaker unit 26. Note thatFIG. 4 shows a simplified two-channel stereo configuration.

A sound signal received from an external digital media player (DMP) 27is converted by the AD converter 22 into a digital signal which is thenprocessed by the DSP 23. In this case, the EQ parameters obtained bydecoding the setting file image data 6 x have been already written tothe setting RAM 21. Accordingly, the DSP 23 performs equalization usingthe EQ parameters. The processed signal is converted by the DA converter24 into an analog signal which is then sent through the output amplifier25 to the speaker unit 26. As a result, the user A can listen to, fromthe speaker unit 26, playback sound which has been equalized using theEQ parameters extracted from the setting file image data 6.

While the headphone 3 of the user A has been described above, thisoperation also applies to the headphone 3 of the user B.

The system operation is outlined as described above. FIG. 4 shows thefollowing example: the user A generates the setting file image data 6 xand 6 y and posts the setting file image data 6 x on the bulletin board5 of the SNS; and the user B downloads the setting file image data 6 x,sets it in the headphone 3, and then listens to music. Of course, thereverse example is also possible: the user B generates setting fileimage data 6 and uploads it on the bulletin board 5 of the SNS; and theuser A downloads and uses the uploaded setting file image data 6 a.

Further, the above interaction does not necessarily have to be madebetween two users; any user can upload setting file image data 6generated by the user; and any other users can download the uploadedsetting file image data 6 and set it in their headphones 3. For thisreason, the sharing range is wide as in FIG. 3.

2. Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus

Referring to FIG. 5, there will be described the configuration of theinformation processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.

In practice, the information processing apparatus 1 includes, forexample, a microcomputer including a central processing unit (CPU), aread-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and various typesof interfaces, and peripheral circuits. Specifically, the informationprocessing apparatus 1 can be embodied as a personal computer, tabletapparatus, smartphone, or the like, as shown in FIG. 4. FIGS. 5A and 5Bshow functional configurations for performing the operation according tothe present embodiment.

FIG. 5A shows a functional configuration for generating and uploadingsetting file image data 6, and FIG. 5B shows a functional configurationfor downloading and using setting file image data 6. While theseconfigurations are shown by the two diagrams for the sake ofconvenience, a single information processing apparatus 1 actually hasboth configurations (processing functions of a signal processing unit50) in the form of software or hardware. Of course, there may be formedan apparatus dedicated to generating and uploading setting file imagedata 6 and an apparatus dedicated to downloading and using setting fileimage data 6.

As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the information processing apparatus 1includes a control unit 35, a storage unit 38, an operation unit 34, adisplay unit 36, a communication unit 37, and the signal processing unit50.

The control unit 35 includes a microcomputer and controls the respectiveunits.

The storage unit 38 is embodied as a RAM, non-volatile memory,transportable storage medium drive, or the like and used to storevarious types of data.

The operation unit 34 represents a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, orother types of operating devices.

The display unit 36 is embodied as a liquid crystal display apparatus,organic electroluminescence (EL) display apparatus, or the like andshows various types of information to the user.

The communication unit 37 comprehensively represents various types ofcommunication devices, including a communication unit for a publicnetwork such as the Internet, a Bluetooth communication unit, a USBcommunication unit, a cable communication unit, an infraredcommunication unit, a wired/wireless communication unit for a publicline, and a LAN interface unit. The information processing apparatus 1accesses any SNS or communicates with a peripheral apparatus such as aheadphone through the communication unit 37.

The signal processing unit 50 is embodied as, for example, a DSP,microcomputer, or the like and performs various types of arithmeticoperations.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the signal processing unit 50 includes a parameterinput unit 31, an image conversion unit 32, and a setting file imagegeneration unit 33 as functions for generating and uploading settingfile image data 6.

The parameter input unit 31 captures parameters which define particularfunctions of the target apparatus. In this example, the parameter inputunit 31 captures the EQ parameters of the headphone 3.

The EQ parameters may be set according to an operation performed on theoperation unit 34 by the user and then inputted to the parameter inputunit 31. The EQ parameters preset in the external headphone 3 may beinputted to the parameter input unit 31 through the communication unit37.

The EQ parameters inputted to the parameter input unit 31 are displayedon the display unit 36. The user can edit the EQ parameters by operatingthe operation unit 34 while looking at the display unit 36. For example,the operator can edit (or set) the parameters by touching on the displaypanel of the display unit 36.

The image conversion unit 32 converts the inputted, or edited or set EQparameters into conversion image data in a predetermined format.

The setting file image generation unit 33 generates setting file imagedata 6 where the conversion image data is placed in image data having alarger image size than the conversion image data.

Specific examples of these steps will be described later.

The generated setting file image data 6 is stored in the storage unit38.

The setting file image data 6 stored in the storage unit 38 is sent,that is, uploaded to the SNS through the communication unit 37. Thus,the setting file image data 6 is posted on the bulletin board 5.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the signal processing unit 50 includes a settingfile image acquisition unit 41, a conversion image extraction unit 42,and a parameter decoding unit 43 as functions for downloading and usingsetting file image data 6.

For example, if the user looks at the image of certain setting fileimage data 6 on the bulletin board 5 of the SNS and then performs adownload operation, the communication unit 37 receives the setting fileimage data 6 through the network and stores it in the storage unit 38.

Then the setting file image acquisition unit 41 of the signal processingunit 50 reads and acquires the setting file image data 6 from thestorage unit 38.

Then the conversion image extraction unit 42 extracts conversion imagedata from the setting file image data 6. As described above, the settingfile image data 6 is data where conversion image data obtained byimaging EQ parameter information is placed in image data having a largerimage size than the conversion image data. For this reason, theconversion image extraction unit 42 extracts part of the conversionimage data from the setting file image data 6.

The parameter decoding unit 43 generates EQ parameters from theextracted conversion image data. This process is a process of obtainingthe original EQ parameters by performing decoding corresponding to theimaging encoding performed by the image conversion unit 32 of FIG. 5A.

The EQ parameters thus obtained are stored in the storage unit 38.

The stored EQ parameters are sent from the communication unit 37 to theheadphone 3 in accordance with a user operation or the like and thenused as the equalizer settings of the headphone 3.

3. First Example of Generation of Setting File Image Data

An example of generation of setting file image data 6 according to thepresent embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.Any types of parameters can be converted into image data.

Hereafter, there will be described an example where parameter settingsof the equalizer of the headphone 3 are converted into image data.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show waveforms (frequency characteristics) representingequalizer settings and specific values of the waveforms. FIG. 6A showsequalizer settings in the form of waveforms. The horizontal axisrepresents the frequency (Hz), and the vertical axis represents the gain(dB). The user himself or herself can generate or edit these waveformson the information processing apparatus 1. Alternatively, the user caninput the equalizer settings from the headphone 3 to the informationprocessing apparatus 1 and then generate waveforms from the settings oredit the settings.

The user of the information processing apparatus 1 can render waveforms(frequency characteristics) representing EQ parameters, for example, byoperating the touchscreen.

Frequency characteristics shown by thin lines in FIG. 6A indicate thatthe waveform is changed by operating the touchscreen (by moving thefingertip). The movement track of the user's fingertip corresponds toaudio signal frequency characteristics desired by the user, and settingswhich are closest to those desired by the user are obtained inaccordance with the resources (band number, band upper limit, and thelike) of the headphone 3. A waveform shown by a thick line in FIG. 6Arepresents finally determined frequency characteristics values.

FIG. 6B shows specific values of the respective frequencies of thewaveform of FIG. 6A. x represents a coordinate on the horizontal axis ofthe screen whose left end is zero. y represents a coordinate on thedownward vertical axis of the screen whose upper end is zero. Hz and dBrepresent frequency values (Hz) and gain values (dB) obtained byconverting x and y coordinates. Note that these values are illustrativeonly and are not values corresponding to the waveform of FIG. 6A.

The x and y values, which are the frequency characteristics values setusing the thick line in FIG. 6B, are x and y coordinate values in thefrequency characteristics rendering area of the display unit 36. Theinformation processing apparatus 1 acquires, as gain values (dB), ycoordinate values corresponding to the x coordinate values (0, 5, 10,etc.) of fixed points (e.g., 128 points) on the x axis. The y coordinatevalues corresponding to the x coordinate values refer to the coordinatevalues of the thick line of FIG. 6B and represent gain values (dB). Thepoints on the x axis correspond to frequency values (Hz). For example,the points on the x axis are frequency values in a range of 20 Hz to22.05 KHz.

Hereafter, traditional image data generation methods will be described.

If parameter information is for use in digital apparatuses, it may beconverted into a standardized file such as an XML file. The parameterinformation may also be converted into a file in a format specific tothe apparatus. However, inconveniently, there is a limitation to thetypes of files that can be uploaded, depending on the system.

The method of using a QR® code is also conceivable. A QR code isobtained by imaging information and can be captured by a camera. Whenthe user takes a glance at a QR code, he or she can understand how tocapture it. QR codes are easy to use and convenient. However, a QR codeincludes only a small amount of information.

A method of embedding parameters in a TAG region is conceivable.However, the user has difficulty in knowing the information embedded inthis region by only normal means (an act of seeing an image). While theuser may be able to know that the region is a setting file from somesymbols or the like, he or she does not understand the difference. Tobegin with, it is difficult to use this method in an image formatincluding no TAG region.

If the frequency characteristics of FIGS. 6A and 6B are edited, a methodof converting the characteristics into an image and then storing theimage is conceivable. However, the image is large in size. Accordingly,when the user compresses the image, he or she has difficulty inrecognizing features of the frequency characteristics at a glance.

While a method of inputting a watermark is also conceivable, the userhas difficulty in recognizing the difference between the parameters at aglance.

In view of the foregoing, image data is generated as follows in thepresent embodiment.

Typical examples of image file formats include Microsoft Windows BitmapImage (BMP), Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG), GraphicsInterchange Format (GIF), and Portable Network Graphics (PNG).Hereafter, an example where a PNG file is generated will be described.However, any storage/compression file formats other than PNG may be usedas long as the original color information can be completely correctlyrestored from the stored file.

Note that for imaging, a method of imaging the gain value of each bandof the target apparatus may be employed. However, if the user reads asetting file 2 for a headphone including a 31-band equalizer andincorporates the file into the headphone including a 3-band equalizer,he or she has to perform an exceptional process on the headphone. Thisis because the image is significantly changed according to the resourcesof the headphone. For this reason, in the present technology, values[gain values (dB)] on the vertical axis corresponding to fixed points(e.g., 128 points described above) on the horizontal axis are convertedinto image data.

Referring to FIG. 7, an image data generation method and an example ofimage data generation according to the present embodiment will bedescribed specifically. Generation of image data is performed in twostages. First, the gain values on the vertical axis are converted intopieces of color image data, respectively. The pieces of color image datarefer to pieces of conversion image data generated by the imageconversion unit 32.

Next, image data including the pieces of conversion image data (colorimage data) is converted into a predetermined file format (PNG format).The resulting file refers to the setting file image data 6 created bythe setting file image generation unit 33.

First, the pieces of conversion image data generated by the imageconversion unit 32 will be described.

The image conversion unit 32 generates the pieces of conversion imagedata by converting values included in the parameter information intopieces of color information or transparency information.

Specifically, the image conversion unit 32 directly converts the gainvalues into pieces of color information. Colors can be represented bycombining R (red), G (green), B (blue), and a (transparency). Thepresent embodiment assumes that predetermined colors represented bycombining R (red), G (green), B (blue), and a (transparency) areconverted into images. Of course, the three primary colors, R (red), G(green), and B (blue), may be combined.

FIG. 7A shows specific values necessary to convert the settings of FIGS.6A and 6B into image data. That is, FIG. 7A shows the gain values (dB)of the points on the horizontal axis of FIG. 6A in the form of a tableof values for image data generation. The values are represented by32-bit floating point numbers. FIG. 7A shows only the valuescorresponding to 19 points.

The 32-bit values representing gain values (dB) in FIG. 7A are eachdivided into 8-bit values, which are then assigned to R, G, B, and α.

For example, the value of the first point is “C080AAAAh” (“h” representshexadecimal notation). In this case, C0h is assigned to an α value, 80hto an R value, AAh to a G value, and AAh to a B value. The R, G, B, andα values are each represented by 8 bits and therefore each take amaximum of 255 in decimal notation.

Each value corresponds to one pixel on the screen. That is, color of onepixel correlated to each gain (dB) is determined.

In this way, the gain values of the 128 points are converted into piecesof color information. Thus, image data of 128 pixels is generated. FIG.6B shows an example of conversion image data 6 a of 1 pixel×128 pixels.While the conversion image data 6 a is vertically extended in thediagram, it is actually color information corresponding to one line.

While setting file image data 6 can be obtained by simply storingconversion image data 6 a as shown in FIG. 7B in PNG format, the userhas difficulty in visually recognizing the image of 1 pixel×128 pixels.Further, an application program for using setting file image data 6 hasdifficulty in determining whether such setting file image data 6 is aparameter setting file.

For these reasons, in the second stage, the setting file imagegeneration unit 33 generates setting file image data 6 where the aboveconversion image data 6 a is placed in image data having a larger imagesize than the conversion image data 6 a. The user can visuallyrecognize, as an image, the conversion image data 6 a thus generated.

The setting file image generation unit 33 incorporates, into the settingfile image data 6, recognition image data obtained by imagingrecognition information for recognizing that the setting file image data6 is an image including conversion image data.

First, there will be described the recognition image data, which isintended to cause the user to recognize the setting file image data 6 onthe application.

Specifically, an identification tag is embedded in the setting fileimage data 6. As used herein, “embedding an identification tag” refersto placing an identification tag not on a text area but on an image.

A universally unique identifier (UUID) or the like is used as anidentification tag. As in the above color imaging, the value of thisidentification tag is converted into an RGBα image. In this case, theRGBα image may be visually hidden by maximizing the transparency. FIG.7C shows an example of recognition image data 6 b obtained by imaging anidentification tag (in this drawing, the recognition image data 6 b isenlarged and vertically extended for descriptive purposes). Theidentification tag thus imaged includes not only the informationindicating that the image is the setting file image data 6 according tothe present embodiment but also information indicating the targetapparatus (headphone 3 or the like). For example, information whichallows identification of the target apparatus, such as the UUID thereof,is incorporated into the identification tag as data.

As described above, the setting file image generation unit 33 generatessetting file image data 6 including conversion image data 6 a andrecognition image data 6 b so that the user can recognize the settingfile image data 6 as an image. FIG. 7D shows an example of such settingfile image data 6.

This setting file image data 6 is image data having a larger image sizethan the conversion image data 6 a and is, for example, an approximatelysquare image, as shown in FIG. 7D. In this example, the square image isgenerated by vertically extending the 128-pixel conversion image data 6a while performing gradation. For example, the conversion image data 6 ais placed in the first line, and pieces of data obtained by graduallychanging the a value with respect to the respective values of theconversion image data 6 a of 1 pixel×128 pixels are placed in the secondto 128-th lines. Thus, an image of 128 pixels×128 pixels is generated.

Further, the recognition image data 6 b is placed in a predeterminedposition (shown by a broken line in FIG. 7D).

Thus, there is generated setting file image data 6 where the conversionimage data 6 a including EQ parameter information and the recognitionimage data 6 b including identification tag information are placed inthe predetermined positions of image data having a larger image sizethan the conversion image data 6 a.

The setting file image data 6 thus generated is stored, for example, inPNG format.

The image of the resulting setting file image data 6 is an approximatelysquare image which the user can visually recognize. While the squareimage is generated using the conversion image data 6 a in the aboveexample, various examples are conceivable. While, in the example of FIG.7D, an image dramatizing effect is obtained by vertically performingtransparency gradation, the 128-pixel data, of course, may be simplycopied to the respective lines without performing gradation.

Another conceivable method is to place the recognition image data 6 b inthe lowest position and performing gradation between two colors at theupper and lower edges.

The following method may also be used: image data having a predeterminedshape such as a square shape is used instead of the conversion imagedata 6 a, and the conversion image data 6 a or recognition image data 6b is placed on part of the image data.

The recognition image data 6 b may be generated as follows: conversioninto only R, G, and B values is performed, and the resulting image datais hidden from the eyes of the user by maximizing the transparency α.

Of course, there is no limitation to the shape or size of the image ofthe setting file image data 6.

The conversion image data 6 a and recognition image data 6 b may bepositioned in various positions. In any case, it is only necessary toallow the application to find the conversion image data 6 a orrecognition image data 6 b in the setting file image data 6 and toacquire information from the found data.

While the user can recognize even setting file image data 6 as shown inFIG. 7D as a file which is obtained by converting parameter settingsinto image data and storing the image data, user recognizability may beincreased.

For example, to indicate the function of the setting file image data 6,that is, the function (service) which allows sharing of parameterinformation, a logo image indicating that the setting file image data 6is an image including the conversion image data 6 a may be added.

FIG. 7E shows setting file image data 6 d where a mark “MY OWN” isplaced as a logo. Of course, the logo is illustrative only. Assumingthat the logo image is placed as described above, when the user looks atthe image on the bulletin board 5 or the like, he or she can easilyrecognize that the image is setting file image data 6, which allowssharing of parameter information.

FIG. 7F shows setting file image data 6 including the image of thetarget apparatus. Such a display allows the user to recognize the targetapparatus at a glance.

When the user recognizes this apparatus, he or she can determine byhimself or herself whether he or she can use or wants to use the settingfile image data 6.

FIG. 7G shows setting file image data 6 including an image indicatingthe creator of the parameter information, such as an avatar orphotograph of the creator.

Thus, the user can easily recognize the creator of the setting fileimage data 6. The creator can generate setting file image data 6 withfun, whereas the user can recognize the creator and determine whether heor she will use the setting file image data 6.

4. Second Example of Generation of Setting File Image Data

In the first example of generation of setting file image data shown inFIG. 7, the image conversion unit 32 generates conversion image data 6 aby converting values included in parameter information into colorinformation or transparency information. Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9,there will be described a second example of generation of setting fileimage data. In this example, the image conversion unit 32 generatesconversion image data by converting values included in parameterinformation into color information or transparency information inaccordance with a conversion pattern.

The conversion image data 6 a described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7Gis generated by assigning each set gain value of the equalizer to piecesof color information, R, G, B, and α, respectively, and then convertingthe pieces of color information into colors corresponding to theassigned values. In this case, if the value is larger, the luminance ofthe color simply becomes higher. For example, if the R value is larger,the luminance of red becomes higher.

On the other hand, color conversion is performed by changing the R, G,B, and α values in given relationships. Hereafter, a setting where theR, G, B, and α values are changed in given relationships is referred toas a conversion pattern.

In the conversion pattern of FIG. 8A, as the gain value is smaller, theluminance of B becomes higher (inversely proportional relationship), andthe luminance of R becomes lower (proportional relationship). As thegain value is larger, the luminance of R becomes higher (proportionalrelationship), and the luminance of B becomes lower (inverseproportional relationship). G is constant with respect to the gain.

Note that the user can select (change) the magnitude of G.

Setting file image data 6 shown in FIG. 8A is an example displayobtained by imaging the settings in a table below FIG. 8A in accordancewith a B, R, and G conversion pattern as described above.

Although it is not easy to understand the relationship between thesettings and the display in the monochrome diagram, the display isapproximately as follows. In the diagram, a lightly colored displayportion is a portion where red is displayed with high luminance, and ahighly colored display portion is a portion where blue is displayed withhigh luminance.

Thus, since the gain of band 1 (lowest range) has a large value of 2.4dB, red is lightly highlighted.

Since the gains of bands 2 and 3 are small (−2.4 dB, −4.8 dB), blue isintensely highlighted.

Since the gain of band 4 is large (2.4 dB), red is lightly highlighted.

Since the gain of band 5 is small (−9.6 dB), blue is intenselyhighlighted.

Since the gains of bands 6 and 7 are smaller (7.2 dB, 12 dB), red islightly highlighted.

Since the gain of band 8 is small (−4.8 dB), blue is intenselyhighlighted.

Since the gains of bands 9 and 10 (high ranges) are large (4.8 dB, 7.2dB), red is lightly highlighted.

As seen above, features of the frequency characteristics can be flexiblyrepresented by the color differences. Since colors are actuallydisplayed, the differences can be represented more precisely.

If the user knows hue tendencies based on the conversion pattern, he orshe can roughly grasp the tendencies of available EQ parameters when heor she looks at the setting file image data 6. For example, the user canrecognize frequency characteristics such as “high frequency-oriented,”“low frequency-oriented,” or “substantially flat.”

In the conversion pattern of FIG. 8B, when the gain is smaller thanzero, R is not displayed; as the gain is smaller, the luminance of Bbecomes higher (inverse proportional relationship). When the gain isgreater than zero, B is not displayed; as the gain is greater, theluminance of R becomes higher (inverse proportional relationship). ForG, as the gain is smaller than zero, the luminance thereof becomes lower(inverse proportional relationship); as the gain is greater than zero,the luminance thereof becomes lower (inverse proportional relationship).Addition of G to R or B makes a given value (e.g., 255). The user canselect (change) the magnitude of G when the gain is zero.

In FIG. 8B, a lightly colored portion is a portion where red ishighlighted; an intensely colored portion is a portion where blue ishighlighted. These are similar to those in FIG. 8A. A portion displayedwith a density which is intermediate between those of R and B is aportion where green is highlighted.

The relationship between the settings and the display based on the aboveR, B, and G conversion pattern is approximately as follows. When thegain is close to zero, G is highlighted. When the gain is smaller thanzero, R is not displayed and therefore a color which is a mixture of Band G is displayed. As the gain is smaller, B is highlighted. When thegain is greater than zero, B is not displayed and therefore a colorwhich is a mixture of R and G is displayed. As the gain is greater, R ishighlighted.

In bands 1 (lowest range), 2, 3, and 4, the gains are close to zero, andG is highlighted with a density which is intermediate between those of Rand B. In band 5, the gain is small (−9.6 dB), and B is intenselyhighlighted.

In bands 6 and 7, the gains are large (7.2 dB, 12 dB), and red islightly highlighted.

In band 8, the gain (−4.8 dB) is smaller than those of bands 1, 2, 3,and 4 and therefore blue is slightly intensely highlighted.

In bands 9 and 10, the gains (4.8 dB, 7.2 dB) are smaller than those ofbands 6 and 7 and therefore red is highlighted. However, the red isdisplayed not more lightly than bands 6 and 7 but slightly moreintensely than bands 6 and 7.

As in FIG. 8A, features of the frequency characteristics can be flexiblyrepresented by the color differences. Since colors are actuallydisplayed, the differences can be represented more precisely. Thus, whenthe user looks at the image of the setting file image data 6, he or shecan know the tendencies of the EQ parameters.

FIGS. 9A to 9C show other examples of the conversion pattern and theplacement of the conversion image data 6 a. While FIG. 8 shows theplacement of the conversion image data 6 a, that is, the lowerrange-to-higher range display of the equalizer on the horizontal axis,FIG. 9 shows an example of the placement of such a display in a radiatecircular shape.

In an example of FIG. 9A, the central portion of the display representsthe lowest range, and the settings are displayed in colors in a radiantcircular shape toward the highest range on a diagonal line. Colors aredisplayed by combining R, G, B, and α. As in FIGS. 8A and 8B, theequalizer settings are shown using 10 bands as an example. The settingvalues are as shown in a table on the right of the screen and are thesame as those in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Similarly, gains (dB) which can be setin the equalizer are −12 dB to +12 dB.

In the conversion pattern of FIG. 9A, with R fixed to the largest valuein a variable range and with B and G being zero, as the set gain issmaller, α becomes larger (inversely proportional relationship). Animage display in this state is a display where R is predominant andwhere α (transparency) changes according to the set gain of theequalizer.

Since FIG. 9A is monotone, an intensely colored portion corresponds to R(red), and a lightly colored portion is a portion where α (transparency)is increased. For this reason, when the setting values of the equalizerare small, a lightly colored display is made; when the setting valuesare large, an intensely colored display is made.

The relationship between the settings and the display is approximatelyas follows. Since the center of the screen represents the lowest range,the central portion corresponds to band 1. The sections of the diagonalcorrespond to bands 2 to 10, and the end thereof corresponds to band 10.

The conversion pattern of FIG. 9B include a pattern about R and αsimilar to that in FIG. 9A, as well as a pattern about G whosehorizontal axis represents bands 1 to n. That is, G is increased from alower range toward a higher range.

An image display in this state is a display where the G tendency islarger in a higher range, compared to the display example of FIG. 9A.

The conversion pattern of FIG. 9C is similar to that of FIG. 9B.However, in this example, the conversion image data 6 a is placed in aradiant square shape.

As described above, the visual impression of the setting file can bechanged by using pieces of color information R, B, G, and α as variablesand setting these variables. Thus, the creator of the setting file imagedata 6 can represent features of the setting file image data 6.

For example, depending on the conversion pattern or the placement of theconversion image data 6 a, it is also possible to indicate the creator,the target apparatus, or the type of EQ parameters (jazz parameters, popparameters, etc.).

Further, the user who generates setting file image data 6 can selectamong the above conversion patterns or download a conversion pattern.

5. Initial Communication with Target Apparatus

Hereafter, an example of a process performed by the informationprocessing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will bedescribed.

First, the initial communication thereof with the target apparatus suchas the headphone 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

FIG. 10 shows a process where the information processing apparatus 1receives predetermined information from the target apparatus (headphone,etc.) under the control of an application program run by the controlunit 35 thereof.

In step S1, the control unit 35 inquires of the headphone 3 about modelinformation through the communication unit 37.

In step S2, the control unit 35 receives model information (e.g., UUID)from the headphone 3 through the communication unit 37.

In step S3, the control unit 35 analyzes the received model information.

In step S4, the control unit 35 makes rendering settings correspondingto the equalizer configuration (settings such as band number).

By performing such communication, the information processing apparatus 1can read the current EQ parameters from the headphone and display themon the display unit 36 so that the user can edit the settings, so as togenerate setting file image data 6 a.

On the other hand, an information processing apparatus 1 which downloadsand uses the setting file image data 6 can check whether the targetapparatus, with which the information processing apparatus 1communicates, is a model which can use parameter information included inthe setting file image data 6.

6. Setting File Image Data Generation Process

Next, referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, an example of the process ofgenerating setting file image data 6 will be described. FIG. 11Acorresponds to the first example of generation of setting file imagedata, and FIG. 11B corresponds to the second example of generation ofsetting file image data.

First, the process of FIG. 11A will be described.

In step S11, a file name is inputted under the control of the controlunit 35. In this case, the file name may be inputted automatically orinputted manually through an operation of the operation unit 34. Afterthe file name is inputted automatically or manually, the process of thecontrol unit 35 proceeds to step S12.

In step S12, the display unit 36 displays a rendering of the equalizercharacteristics under the control of the control unit 35. For example,the display unit 36 displays the equalizer parameters read from theheadphone or the like through communication so that the user can editthe parameters, as shown in FIG. 10, or displays an image so that theuser can newly set the equalizer parameters. On the other hand, the userperforms an input operation to set or edit the equalizer parameters asdesired.

When the newly set or edited parameter information, which serves as thesource of setting file image data 6, is confirmed, the parameter inputunit 31 of the signal processing unit 50 captures the parameterinformation in step S13.

In step S14, the signal processing unit 50 generates conversion imagedata 6 a under the control of the control unit 35. For example, asdescribed above, the image conversion unit 32 of the signal processingunit 50 generates conversion image data 6 a from the parameterinformation by dividing a 32-bit gain value corresponding to eachfrequency into pieces of 8-bit data and then assigning the pieces of8-bit data to α, R, G, and B values, respectively.

In steps S15 to S18, the signal processing unit 50 generates settingfile image data 6 using the function of the setting file imagegeneration unit 33.

In step S15, the signal processing unit 50 places the conversion imagedata 6 a in an image serving as the setting file image data 6. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 7D, the conversion image data 6 a isincorporated into part of square setting file image data 6.

In step S16, the signal processing unit 50 places recognition image data6 b in the image data.

In step S17, the signal processing unit 50 places, in the image, a logomark, an image of the target apparatus, an avatar, or the like servingas a visual symbol.

In step S18, the signal processing unit 50 compresses the image datathus generated in PNG format.

In step S19, the control unit 35 stores, in the storage unit 38, thesetting file image data 6 generated by the signal processing unit 50.

Through the above steps, the setting file image data 6 is generated.

Next, FIG. 11B will be described.

The only difference between FIG. 11B and FIG. 11A is that step S21 isadded. In step S21, a conversion pattern to be used is determined.

The conversion pattern may be determined according to a user selectionor selected according to the category of music, the target apparatus, orthe like. Alternatively, a fixed conversion pattern may be usually used.

Steps S22 to S30 are similar to steps S11 to S19 of FIG. 11A. Note thatin the generation of conversion image data 6 a in step S25, theconversion pattern determined in step S21 are used, and imaging asdescribed with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 is performed.

7. Process Using Setting File Image Data

Next, referring to the flowcharts of FIGS. 11A and 11B, there will bedescribed a process that the information processing apparatus 1according to the present embodiment performs using the setting fileimage data 6.

Specifically, the process refers to an operation where the informationprocessing apparatus 1 performs steps using the setting file image data6 downloaded from the bulletin board 5 of the SNS and finally sets, inthe external headphone 3, the EQ parameters included in the setting fileimage data 6.

An application program in the information processing apparatus 1 causesthe control unit 35 to perform this process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a process where the informationprocessing apparatus 1 analyzes the downloaded setting file image data 6and sets, in the target apparatus (headphone 3 or the like), theequalizer settings included in the setting file image data 6.

Note that FIG. 12 assumes that after performing network communicationthrough the communication unit 37 and thus downloading, for example,setting file image data 6 posted on the SNS, the information processingapparatus 1 is storing an image file as the setting file image data 6 inthe storage unit 38.

In step S101, the control unit 35 opens and reads the image file(setting file image data 6) stored in the storage unit 38.

In step S102, the control unit 35 determines whether the image file isthe setting file image data 6. This is a process of checking whether thefile includes recognition image data 6 b and whether the recognitionimage data 6 b is appropriate information.

If the image file is not setting file image data 6, the control unit 35proceeds to step S110 to display an alarm message on the display unit 36and then ends the process.

If the control unit 35 confirms that the image file is setting fileimage data 6, it proceeds to step S103 to identify the model of thetarget apparatus (headphone 3 or the like) from the recognition imagedata 6 b.

In step S104, the control unit 35 determines whether the model of theheadphone 3 which is connected (or can be connected) to the informationprocessing apparatus 1 including the control unit 35 for communicationand the model of the target apparatus confirmed in step S103 arematched. Since the model of the connected headphone 3 has been obtainedthrough steps S1 and S2 in the initial communication of FIG. 10, thecontrol unit 35 checks whether the model confirmed in step S103 and themodel obtained through steps S1 and S2 of FIG. 10 are matched.

If the model of the connected headphone 3 and the model corresponding tothe setting file image data 6 are not matched, the process proceeds tostep S108. In this step, the control unit 35 displays an alarm messageon the display unit 36. Then the process proceeds to step S109.

In step S109, the display unit 36 shows the user that the connectedapparatus is not the model corresponding to the setting file image data6 and requests the user to make a selection. This is because althoughthe connected apparatus does not directly correspond to the setting fileimage data 6, it may be able to use the EQ parameters or the like.

If the user selects the continuation of the process, the processproceeds to step S105. If the user does not select the continuation ofthe process, the process ends.

In step S105, the control unit 35 causes the signal processing unit 50to extract the conversion image data 6 a from the setting file imagedata 6 and to decode the conversion image data 6 a. Specifically, thecontrol unit 35 causes the setting file image acquisition unit 41 ofFIG. 5B to acquire the setting file image data 6 from the storage unit38. Then the control unit 35 causes the conversion image extraction unit42 to extract the conversion image data 6 a from the setting file imagedata 6. Then the control unit 35 generates EQ parameters from theconversion image data 6 a. That is, the control unit 35 causes theparameter decoding unit 43 to perform a decoding process correspondingto the imaging encoding performed by the image conversion unit 32 ofFIG. 5A. Specifically, the parameter decoding unit 43 converts the α, R,G, and B values of each of 1×128 pixels back into gain values andregards these gain values as the gain values of the 128 points on thefrequency axis.

Thus, the EQ parameter information of equalizing characteristics basedon the original gain values of the 128 points is obtained.

In step S106, the control unit 35 causes the signal processing unit 50to reproduce frequency characteristics corresponding to the resources ofthe connected target apparatus (headphone). For example, the decoded EQparameters are 128-band frequency characteristics information, and ifthe equalizer of the headphone 3 has six bands, the decoded EQparameters are converted into 6-band EQ parameters.

The control unit 35 causes the signal processing unit 50 to perform theabove process and thus to reproduce the EQ parameters for the headphone3 and then stores the EQ parameters in the storage unit 38.

In step S107, the control unit 35 causes the communication unit 37 tosend the stored EQ parameters to the headphone 3.

In step S111, the headphone 3 receives the EQ parameters and changes theexisting equalizer settings to the received EQ parameters.

Through the above steps, it is possible to change the parameter settingsof the target apparatus, such as the headphone 3, using the setting fileimage data 6 downloaded to the information processing apparatus 1.

Through these steps, as described above, the user can perform such aschanges to the settings of his or her own headphone 3 using setting fileimage data 6 provided to the public.

8. Program and Modification

Programs according to the present embodiment are programs which cause anarithmetic processing apparatus, such as a CPU or DSP, to perform theprocess performed by the information processing apparatus 1 described inthe above embodiment.

Specifically, the program for causing an arithmetic processing apparatusto generate setting file image data 6 causes an arithmetic processingapparatus to perform a process of inputting parameter information forsetting the operating state of the target apparatus, a process ofgenerating conversion image data 6 a by imaging the parameterinformation, and a process of generating setting file image data 6 wherethe conversion image data 6 a is placed in image data having a largerimage size than the conversion image data 6 a.

That is, this program causes the arithmetic processing apparatus toperform the process shown in FIG. 11A or 11B.

On the other hand, the program for causing an arithmetic processingapparatus to perform a process using setting file image data 6 causes anarithmetic processing apparatus to perform a process of receivingsetting file image data 6, a process of extracting conversion image data6 a from the setting file image data 6, and a process of generatingparameter information from the conversion image data 6 a.

That is, this program causes the arithmetic processing apparatus toperform the process shown in FIG. 12. These programs allow thearithmetic processing apparatuses to serve as the information processingapparatus 1.

These programs may be previously recorded in a hard disk drive (HDD)serving as a recording medium which is included in an apparatus such asa computer apparatus, a read-only memory (ROM) in a microcomputerincluding a CPU, or the like.

These programs may also be stored (recorded) temporarily or permanentlyin a removable recording medium, such as a flexible disc, compact discread-only memory (CD-ROM), magneto-optical (MO) disc, digital versatiledisc (DVD), Blu-ray Disc®, magnetic disc, semiconductor memory, ormemory card. These removable recording media can be provided asso-called package software.

These programs may be not only installed from a removable recordingmedium to a personal computer or the like but also downloaded from adownload site through a network, such as a local area network (LAN) orthe Internet.

These programs also allow a wide variety of apparatuses to serve as theinformation processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.For example, by downloading these programs to a personal computer,portable information processing apparatus, mobile phone, game machine,video apparatus, or personal digital assistant (PDA), or the like, theportable information processing apparatus or the like can serve as theinformation processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.

While the present embodiment has been described above, variousmodifications are conceivable.

While the parameters have been described using the equalizer settings(EQ parameters) of the headphone 3 as an example, other parameters arealso conceivable.

For example, if the target apparatus is a headphone, system component,AV receiver, car-mounted audio product, or other audio apparatuses,conceivable examples of the parameters include parameters for settingreverb, parameters for setting echo, flanger effect parameters,phase-shift effect parameters, parameters for setting panpot, parametersfor setting a multichannel gain, parameters for setting virtual audiospace, setting parameters for bass enhancement or high-rangecompensation, parameters for noise cancellation filters, and DJ effectparameters.

If the target apparatus is a noise cancelling headphone or the like, thepresent technology is suitable for sharing parameters for filters whichare appropriate to particular situations, such as parameters for a noisecancelling optimization filter for a particular car in a particularrailroad route, a noise cancelling optimization filter corresponding tothe model of the car, of a car-mounted audio apparatus, or the like.

Of course, the present technology is also suitable for sharing setting(image quality node, etc.) parameters for video signals.

Accordingly, the present technology is applicable to setting ofparticular functions of various types of audio, video, and entertainmentapparatuses and the like.

The present technology may be configured as follows:

(1) An information processing apparatus including: a parameter inputunit configured to input parameter information for setting an operatingstate of a target apparatus; an image conversion unit configured togenerate conversion image data by imaging the parameter information; andsetting file image generation unit configured to generate setting fileimage data where the conversion image data is placed in image datahaving a larger image size than the conversion image data.

(2) The information processing apparatus according to the above (1),wherein the setting file image data further includes recognition imagedata obtained by imaging recognition information for recognizing thatthe setting file image data is an image including the conversion imagedata.

(3) The information processing apparatus according to the above (1) or(2), wherein the image conversion unit generates the conversion imagedata by converting the parameter information into one of colorinformation and transparency information.

(4) The information processing apparatus according to the above (3),wherein the image conversion unit generates the conversion image data byconverting a value included in the parameter information into one ofcolor information and transparency information.

(5) The information processing apparatus according to the above (3),wherein the image conversion unit generates the conversion image data byconverting a value included in the parameter information into one ofcolor information and transparency information in accordance with aconversion pattern.

(6) The information processing apparatus according to above (5), whereinthe image conversion unit uses the selected or inputted conversionpattern.

(7) The information processing apparatus according to any one of theabove (1) to (6), wherein the setting file image data includes imagedata corresponding to the conversion image data.

(8) The information processing apparatus according to any one of theabove (1) to (7), wherein the setting file image data includes an imageindicating that the setting file image data is an image including theconversion image data.

(9) The information processing apparatus according to any one of theabove (1) to (8), wherein the setting file image data includes an imageindicating a creator of the parameter information.

(10) The information processing apparatus according to any one of theabove (1) to (9), wherein the setting file image data includes an imageindicating the target apparatus.

(11) The information processing apparatus according to any one of theabove (1) to (10), wherein the parameter information is a parameter ofan equalizer characteristic.

(12) A method for processing information, including: inputting parameterinformation for setting an operating state of a target apparatus;generating conversion image data by imaging the parameter information;and generating setting file image data where the conversion image datais placed in image data having a larger image size than the conversionimage data.

(13) A program for causing an information processing apparatus toperform: a process of inputting parameter information for setting anoperating state of a target apparatus; a process of generatingconversion image data by imaging the parameter information; and aprocess of generating setting file image data where the conversion imagedata is placed in image data having a larger image size than theconversion image data.

(14) An information processing apparatus including: a setting file imageacquisition unit configured to receive setting file image data whereconversion image data obtained by imaging parameter information forsetting an operating state of a target apparatus is placed in image datahaving a larger image size than the conversion image data; and aconversion image extraction unit configured to extract the conversionimage data from the setting file image data; and a parameter decodingunit configured to generate parameter information from the conversionimage data.

(15) A method for processing information, including: receiving settingfile image data where conversion image data obtained by imagingparameter information for setting an operating state of a targetapparatus is placed in image data having a larger image size than theconversion image data; and extracting the conversion image data from thesetting file image data; and generating parameter information from theconversion image data.

(16) A program for causing an information processing apparatus toperform: a process of receiving setting file image data where conversionimage data obtained by imaging parameter information for setting anoperating state of a target apparatus is placed in image data having alarger image size than the conversion image data; a process ofextracting the conversion image data from the setting file image data;and a process of generating parameter information from the conversionimage data.

It should be understood by those skilled in the art that variousmodifications, combinations, sub-combinations and alterations may occurdepending on design requirements and other factors insofar as they arewithin the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. An information processing apparatus comprising: aparameter input unit configured to input parameter information forsetting an operating state of a target apparatus; an image conversionunit configured to generate conversion image data by imaging theparameter information; and a setting file image generation unitconfigured to generate setting file image data where the conversionimage data is placed in image data having a larger image size than theconversion image data.
 2. The information processing apparatus accordingto claim 1, wherein the setting file image data further includesrecognition image data obtained by imaging recognition information forrecognizing that the setting file image data is an image including theconversion image data.
 3. The information processing apparatus accordingto claim 1, wherein the image conversion unit generates the conversionimage data by converting the parameter information into one of colorinformation and transparency information.
 4. The information processingapparatus according to claim 3, wherein the image conversion unitgenerates the conversion image data by converting a value included inthe parameter information into one of color information and transparencyinformation.
 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim3, wherein the image conversion unit generates the conversion image databy converting a value included in the parameter information into one ofcolor information and transparency information in accordance with aconversion pattern.
 6. The information processing apparatus according toclaim 5, wherein the image conversion unit uses the selected or inputtedconversion pattern.
 7. The information processing apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the setting file image data includes image datacorresponding to the conversion image data.
 8. The informationprocessing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting fileimage data includes an image indicating that the setting file image datais an image including the conversion image data.
 9. The informationprocessing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting fileimage data includes an image indicating a creator of the parameterinformation.
 10. The information processing apparatus according to claim1, wherein the setting file image data includes an image indicating thetarget apparatus.
 11. The information processing apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the parameter information is a parameter of anequalizer characteristic.
 12. A method for processing information,comprising: inputting parameter information for setting an operatingstate of a target apparatus; generating conversion image data by imagingthe parameter information; and generating setting file image data wherethe conversion image data is placed in image data having a larger imagesize than the conversion image data.
 13. A program for causing aninformation processing apparatus to perform: a process of inputtingparameter information for setting an operating state of a targetapparatus; a process of generating conversion image data by imaging theparameter information; and a process of generating setting file imagedata where the conversion image data is placed in image data having alarger image size than the conversion image data.
 14. An informationprocessing apparatus comprising: a setting file image acquisition unitconfigured to receive setting file image data where conversion imagedata obtained by imaging parameter information for setting an operatingstate of a target apparatus is placed in image data having a largerimage size than the conversion image data; and a conversion imageextraction unit configured to extract the conversion image data from thesetting file image data; and a parameter decoding unit configured togenerate parameter information from the conversion image data.
 15. Amethod for processing information, comprising: receiving setting fileimage data where conversion image data obtained by imaging parameterinformation for setting an operating state of a target apparatus isplaced in image data having a larger image size than the conversionimage data; and extracting the conversion image data from the settingfile image data; and generating parameter information from theconversion image data.
 16. A program for causing an informationprocessing apparatus to perform: a process of receiving setting fileimage data where conversion image data obtained by imaging parameterinformation for setting an operating state of a target apparatus isplaced in image data having a larger image size than the conversionimage data; a process of extracting the conversion image data from thesetting file image data; and a process of generating parameterinformation from the conversion image data.